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Health Effects of Lead & Copper Exposure

Definitions:

  • Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety.
  • Action Level: The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.
  • mg/L: One milligram per liter (mg/L) is equal to one part per million (ppm), which is approximately the same as 1 second in 11.5 years.
  • µg/L: One microgram per liter (µg/L) is equal to one part per billion (ppb), which is approximately the same as 1 second in 31.7 years.

 
Lead Exposure

MCLG (µg/L)

Action Level (µg/L)

0

15
Copper Exposure

MCLG (mg/L)

Action Level (mg/L)

1.3

1.3

Health Effects of Lead Exposure above 15 µg/L :

The health effects of lead are most severe for infants and children. For infants and children, exposure to high levels of lead in drinking water can result in delays in physical or mental development. For adults, it can result in kidney problems or high blood pressure. Although the main sources of exposure to lead are ingesting paint chips and inhaling dust, EPA estimates that 10 to 20 percent of human exposure to lead may come from lead in drinking water. Infants who consume mostly mixed formula can receive 40 to 60 percent of their exposure to lead from drinking water.

Health Effects of Copper Exposure above 1.3 mg/L:

Copper is an essential nutrient, but some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over a relatively short amount of time could experience gastrointestinal distress. Some people who drink water containing copper in excess of the action level over many years could suffer liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson’s Disease should consult their personal doctor.